5 Types of Sports That's Good for Pregnant Women

Being pregnant shouldn't be a reason to stop exercising. When a woman is pregnant, they are instead advised to exercise regularly to keep the body fit and maintain the health of the fetus. Routine exercise during pregnancy is believed to facilitate labor, and can produce smart babies.

Although regular exercise is recommended, not all types of exercise can be done by women who are pregnant. Sports carried out during pregnancy certainly have a huge risk. Therefore, before you start exercising, it's a good idea to consult with your obstetrician about the restrictions and what is allowed when exercising. The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology recommends 30 minutes of moderate exercise several times a week. Except for certain medical conditions, you can ask the obstetrician first.

The following Gold’s Gym has summarized several types of sports that are safe for pregnant women that are usually recommended by doctors.

1. Pregnancy Exercise

Pregnancy exercise is a favorite sport of pregnant women. Pregnancy exercises that can be done at any gestational age can help increase strength and stamina during pregnancy. Pregnant exercise is also safe if done at home using video tutorials on the internet. However, for pregnant women who are just about to start exercising, it is advisable to take a pregnancy exercise class that is guided by an expert instructor to minimize the risk of injury while exercising. Taking pregnancy exercise classes can also make you meet and interact with other pregnant women so that you can add knowledge and information about pregnancy.

2. Walking

Another light exercise that is safe for pregnant women, namely walking. A routine relaxing walk can be beneficial for blood circulation, improving the heart's work, and maintaining stamina to stay fit. To walk, only you need at least 30 minutes per day. Simply take a leisurely walk around the house or garden, then avoid the steep uphill or downhill roads to prevent the risk of fatigue and falling. Also avoid walking during the hot day, and don't forget to bring a drinking bottle to stay hydrated.

3. Yoga

Yoga is a good exercise for pregnant women because it exercises flexibility in the body, expands breathing, reduces back pain during pregnancy, and can help prepare your hips for childbirth. Besides gymnastics, yoga also has special classes for pregnant women.

4. Swimming

Swimming can be a suitable exercise choice for pregnant women. This exercise feels easier because your body mass will decrease in water, so you will not get tired because you move too much while supporting your weight. Some of the benefits of swimming are that it can reduce pelvic pain, relieve nausea, and even treat swelling at the ankles. Breaststroke and backstroke are safe swimming movements because they do not require body twisting which can be risky for pregnancy.

5. Pilates

Besides yoga, pilates also has many benefits for those of you who are pregnant. Can strengthen muscles, including the pelvic floor muscles, help balance the body, smooth the respiratory system, and can teach you the right way to relax. Pilates instructors will guide you in doing some good postures during pregnancy.